WhatsApp Brings Mobile-Style Video and Audio Calls on Web
Published: April 30, 2025
WhatsApp Brings Mobile-Style Video and Audio Calls on the Web for you. Now, you can enjoy your calls on whatsApp web.
WhatsApp Web has always been a handy tool for sending messages and staying connected without picking up your phone.
But until now, one major feature was missing: the ability to make voice and video calls directly from your browser. That’s finally changing.
WhatsApp is rolling out mobile-style voice and video calling to its web platform, a move users have requested for years.
This means you’ll now be able to connect with friends, family, and colleagues without switching devices—right from your desktop.
But here’s the twist: while most headlines simply announce the new feature, very few explain what’s new and what makes this update different.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover those hidden details — from more innovative audio technology to better group call experiences — that your average tech article isn’t talking about.
The Official Announcement – WhatsApp Brings Mobile-Style Video and Audio Calls on the Web

WhatsApp has officially confirmed that voice and video calling are coming to WhatsApp Web—and it’s more than just a minor update.
This means that, just like on your mobile app, you’ll soon be able to call your contacts directly from your desktop or laptop browser.
What’s Included:
- One-on-one voice calls
- One-on-one video calls
- Group calls (coming soon for Web)
The new calling feature is designed to feel just like it does on your phone — simple, clean, and user-friendly.
Where Can You Use It?
- On WhatsApp Web (in your browser, like Chrome or Edge)
- Also on the WhatsApp Desktop App (Windows and macOS)
What Will You See?
Once this update rolls out to your account, you’ll notice:
- Phone and video camera icons are in the top-right corner of individual chats.
- When someone calls you, a pop-up window will appear, similar to a video call on Zoom or Google Meet.
- You can accept, decline, mute your mic, or turn off your camera.
Is It Available for Everyone?
The feature is rolling out gradually right now. Some users may see the call buttons, while others might get them in the coming weeks.
So if you don’t have it yet, don’t worry — it’s on the way.
What Others Are Saying (The Basics)
If you’ve been reading tech news or scrolling through social media, you’ve probably seen headlines like:
- “WhatsApp Web Gets Video and Voice Calling Feature”
- “Now You Can Make WhatsApp Calls on Your Computer!”
Most stories cover the update’s basic features, which is great if you’re curious.
Here’s a quick summary of what they’re saying:
The Main Highlights You’ll See Everywhere
- You can now make voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web.
- The call interface is simple, with buttons to mute, switch camera, or end the call.
- No need to install anything extra — it works straight from your web browser.
- It’s similar to Zoom or Google Meet, but with WhatsApp’s familiar look.
- It’s available for one-on-one chats right now. Group calling is expected soon.
So, yes — it’s a big step forward. But here’s the thing…
While these updates sound exciting (and they are!), most people are just stopping here.
That’s where we go beyond the basics. In the next part, we’ll show you the real gems of this update — the stuff your favorite tech blogs probably missed.
What Others Are Not Telling You – 5 Features That Matter
While the headlines are all about WhatsApp Web finally getting voice and video calls, there are a few hidden gems that many people are missing.
Let’s take a closer look at these underreported features that make this update even more exciting:
MLow Codec for Better Audio Quality
You might have heard about the call quality improvement, but what exactly makes it better? WhatsApp Web now uses something called the MLow codec.
In simple terms, this special technology makes audio calls clearer even when your internet connection isn’t perfect.
This codec helps maintain call quality in areas with slow internet or weak Wi-Fi connections.
So, there will be no more annoying static noises or call dropouts during those important conversations.
Group Video Calls with Speaker Spotlight
Here’s a cool feature that hasn’t been getting much attention: group video calls. WhatsApp Web can now support video calls with up to 32 participants (wow!).
What makes it even better is the Speaker Spotlight.
This means that when someone in the group is speaking, their video will automatically pop up in a larger window, so you can easily follow the conversation.
Perfect for work meetings, virtual hangouts, or family chats.
Screen Sharing with Audio Support
Coming soon to WhatsApp Web: screen sharing with audio! This is huge for anyone who needs to show something on their screen, whether it’s a presentation, a document, or a quick demo.
You can share your screen while still talking through the call.
For example, imagine you’re giving a quick remote tutorial to a friend or presenting a project to your team.
This screen-sharing option is a game-changer!
Seamless Chat-to-Call Integration
Here’s a small but useful feature: WhatsApp Web makes it super easy to switch from a text conversation to a voice or video call.
Call buttons are right next to your contact’s name in the chat window, so with just one click, you can start the call—no need to switch screens or apps.
It’s all about smooth transitions, making the process natural and efficient.
End-to-End Encryption for Web Calls
Privacy is a big deal. With WhatsApp Web, your voice and video calls are still protected by end-to-end encryption.
This means your conversations are secure and private, just like on your phone.
WhatsApp is committed to keeping your chats and calls private, so even on the web, you don’t have to worry about third parties snooping in.
Why These Features Matter
These hidden features might not be the first things that grab your attention, but trust me — they make a big difference.
From better call quality to easier group chats, WhatsApp Web is becoming a serious tool for personal and professional use.
Real-World Benefits and Use Cases
Now that we’ve covered all the cool features WhatsApp Web offers, let’s discuss how these updates will make your life easier.
Whether you’re working from home, staying connected with family, or managing a remote team, this update brings real value. Here’s how:
Remote Teams & Work Collaboration
With more people working remotely, WhatsApp Web has become a go-to tool for staying connected.
With video calls and screen sharing available, it’s even easier to collaborate with your team.
You can quickly jump into a meeting, share your screen for presentations, or even review a project together — all without needing to switch to another app like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
It’s all about keeping things simple and integrated, and this update does exactly that.
Seamlessly transitioning from a text conversation to a call makes work much more efficient.
Family Catch-ups and Virtual Hangouts
WhatsApp Web’s video calling feature is a game-changer for family members living far apart.
Whether it’s a holiday call or a regular catch-up, you’ll enjoy clearer audio and video thanks to the MLow codec and Speaker Spotlight for group chats.
And if you’re planning a virtual family reunion or a birthday party via WhatsApp, the ability to see and hear everyone in a group call easily makes it feel like you’re all in the same room.
Students and Online Learning
WhatsApp Web is now an even more powerful tool for students and online learners.
Imagine being able to join a study group, share notes, or attend an online class all on the same platform.
With screen sharing and audio in place, you can easily participate in group discussions, share resources, or even do a quick presentation without missing a beat.
It’s a convenient, all-in-one platform for both casual learning and formal study sessions.
Personal Convenience – Switching Between Devices
One of the best things about this update is its convenience for everyday communication. You no longer have to pick up your phone to make a call.
Whether you’re at your desk or want to call someone while working on your laptop, you can now make calls from WhatsApp Web without missing a beat.
This makes it easier to stay productive without interruptions.
Imagine you’re typing up a report but need to make a quick call — with WhatsApp Web, you don’t even have to touch your phone!
Why It’s So Valuable
These updates make WhatsApp Web even more of a must-have tool for everything from work meetings to personal calls.
The seamless experience of jumping from chat to call, sharing your screen, and keeping everything secure and encrypted allows you to communicate in whatever works best for you.
So, whether you’re a remote worker, a student, or want to keep in touch with loved ones, this new feature makes WhatsApp Web a more powerful communication platform.
Limitations and Things to Watch For
While the new voice and video calling features on WhatsApp Web are exciting, there are a few limitations and things to remember before you get too comfortable.
Knowing the full picture is always good, so let’s break down what might not be perfect just yet.
Device Limitations
While WhatsApp Web is great for making calls from your laptop or desktop, some device restrictions remain.
For the call to work, you’ll need to have your phone connected to the internet. In other words, your phone must be nearby and active, as it acts as a bridge to handle the call.
So, if your phone loses signal or goes offline, you’ll be unable to make or receive calls on WhatsApp Web.
This might be a hassle if you’re in a location where your phone signal is weak.
Limited Group Video Call Features
Group video calling is available for now, but it’s still not as fully developed as on mobile.
Features like virtual backgrounds, call scheduling, or group screen sharing are still missing.
WhatsApp Web might be a great way to stay in touch with a small group, but it doesn’t yet offer the full features of other video conferencing tools.
So, if you’re hosting large meetings or need advanced group features, you might need to turn to apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet for now.
Browser Compatibility Issues
Although WhatsApp Web is available for most major browsers, compatibility issues could still depend on your browser or operating system.
For example, certain older Internet Explorer or Safari versions might not fully support the new video calling feature.
It’s best to use up-to-date Chrome, Edge, or Firefox versions to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Additionally, some users have reported performance glitches while using the video calling feature on the Web, especially if they’re running a lot of tabs or apps in the background.
Keeping your browser and device updated will help minimize these issues.
Quality Dependent on Internet Speed
While WhatsApp Web uses the MLow codec to enhance audio quality, the call quality still heavily depends on your internet speed.
Slow or unstable internet connections can result in poor video quality, dropped calls, or delays.
So, to make the most of these new features, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or strong mobile data connection.
If your internet isn’t up to par, you might want to consider using WhatsApp on your phone for better quality.
Availability Still Rolling Out
This update isn’t available to everyone just yet. WhatsApp is rolling it out gradually, so if you don’t have it right now, don’t panic — it’s coming soon!
But until it reaches your account, you won’t be able to use voice or video calls on WhatsApp Web.
Patience is key, and once the update is live for you, it will likely work flawlessly, as WhatsApp continues to improve its Web experience.
Keep These in Mind
While there’s a lot to love about the new video calling features, keeping these limitations in mind is important.
Still, for casual calls or quick business meetings, WhatsApp Web offers a convenient and secure option without switching between multiple apps.
Ready to explore these features further once they’re fully available?
You’ll be able to enjoy seamless communication from your computer, whether you’re catching up with friends or working on a team project.
How to Access and Use the Feature (Step-by-Step)
Ready to start making voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web? It’s super easy! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you set it up and use it without hassle.
We’ll also cover how to check if the feature is available and troubleshoot common issues like camera or mic problems.
How to Check if the Feature is Available
Before diving in, you might wonder, “Is this feature available for me yet?” Here’s how to check:
- Update WhatsApp on Your Phone: Make sure your WhatsApp mobile app is up-to-date. Go to your app store (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iPhone) and check for updates.
- WhatsApp Web on Your Browser: Open WhatsApp Web on your browser by visiting web.whatsapp.com.
- Scan QR Code: Open WhatsApp on your phone, tap the three dots (menu) in the top right corner, and select WhatsApp Web. Then scan the QR code on your computer screen.
- Look for Call Buttons: Once logged in, look for the phone and video camera icons following to your contact names in your chat list. If you see these, it means the calling feature is available for you!
If you don’t see the call icons yet, don’t worry! The feature is being rolled out gradually, and it should be available soon.
Steps to Make a Voice/Video Call on WhatsApp Web
Once you’ve confirmed the feature is available, making a voice or video call is a breeze. Here’s how you do it:
- Open WhatsApp Web: Head to web.whatsapp.com and log in by scanning the QR code with your phone.
- Start a Conversation: Click on any contact you want to call, just like you would to send a message.
- Click the Call Icon: Right at the top of the chat window, you’ll see a phone icon for a voice call and a video camera icon for a video call.
- Wait for Connection: After you click the icon, WhatsApp will start ringing your contact. Once they pick up, you’re connected!
- Voice Call: If you’re making a voice call, you can mute the microphone, adjust the volume, or end the call using the options at the bottom.
- Video Call: For a video call, you can switch your camera, mute the video, or even switch to full-screen mode for a better experience.
Now you’re all set to chat away with friends, family, or colleagues!
Troubleshooting Common Issues (Camera/Mic Not Working)
Sometimes things don’t work as expected, and that’s okay! Here are some simple troubleshooting tips for when your camera or mic isn’t working:
Check Permissions
Make sure that your browser has permission to access your camera and microphone. Here’s how:
For Chrome
- Click the lock icon next to the URL.
- Select Site Settings.
- Make sure the settings for Camera and Microphone are set to Allow.
For Firefox
- Click the three dots in the top-right corner and go to Settings.
- Under Privacy & Security, ensure your camera and microphone are set to Allow.
Restart Your Browser
If permissions are correct and the camera/mic still isn’t working, close your browser completely and reopen it. This simple step often fixes minor glitches.
Check Your Device’s Camera and Mic
Make sure that your camera and mic are working on your computer.
Try using them with other apps (like Zoom, Skype, or the Camera app on Windows/Mac) to see if the problem is with WhatsApp Web or your hardware.
Update Your Browser
Outdated browsers can cause issues with the new calling features. To ensure your browser is up-to-date, go to the settings menu and check for updates.
Use Another Browser
Sometimes, specific browsers can have compatibility issues. If the problem persists, try using a different browser.
Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Mozilla Firefox are the best choices for WhatsApp Web.
Clear Cache and Cookies
If your camera or mic is not working, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. Here’s how:
- Go to your browser’s settings.
- Find the Privacy and Security section.
- Click on Clear browsing data.
- Choose to clear your cache and cookies from the time when the issue started.
Get Ready to Enjoy Seamless Calls on WhatsApp Web!
Now that you know how to access the feature, make a call, and troubleshoot common issues, you can start using voice and video calls on WhatsApp Web.
Whether you’re using it for work or chatting with friends, this update makes it easier than ever to stay connected.
FAQs
No, WhatsApp Web (used in a browser) currently does not support voice and video calling. These features are only available in the WhatsApp Desktop app for Windows and macOS. If you want to use calling on a computer, download the desktop version from the official website.
To make calls, download and install the WhatsApp Desktop application. Once installed, scan the QR code using your phone to link your account. Then open any chat and click the voice or video call icon at the top right.
The browser-based WhatsApp Web does not support calling features, so the call icons won’t appear. You’ll need to use the WhatsApp Desktop app to access voice and video calling. Make sure your app is updated to the latest version.
As of now, WhatsApp Desktop only supports one-on-one voice and video calls. Group calling is not available yet on desktop, but it may be added in future updates. For now, use the mobile app for group calls.
For Windows, you need Windows 10 64-bit version 1903 or later. For macOS, your system should be running macOS 10.13 or newer. Your computer must also have a working camera and microphone.
Unfortunately, WhatsApp does not offer a desktop app for Linux systems, and the web version lacks calling features. This means voice and video calls are currently not supported on Linux. You may need to use your phone for calls.
Yes, voice and video calls made through WhatsApp Desktop are fully end-to-end encrypted. This means only you and the person you’re talking to can hear or see the conversation. Even WhatsApp can’t access your call content.
Yes, your phone must stay connected to the internet to use WhatsApp Desktop. The desktop app syncs with your phone, so if your phone goes offline, calling and messaging on the desktop will stop working.
Yes, during a voice call, you can click the camera icon to request a switch to a video call. The other person must accept the request for the switch to happen. This makes it easy to go from talking to seeing each other.
First, check your computer’s settings to make sure WhatsApp has permission to use your mic and camera. Close other apps that might be using the camera or mic. Also, update your drivers and restart the app if the problem continues.
Final Thoughts
The new WhatsApp Web voice and video calling feature is a game-changer for people who prefer using WhatsApp on their computers.
With just a few clicks, you can now make voice and video calls directly from your browser — no need to pick up your phone!
It’s perfect for work meetings, personal chats, or catching up with family and friends.
Whether you’re using it for quick calls or long conversations, the experience is smooth, convenient, and just like using WhatsApp on your phone.
And if you face any issues, you now know exactly how to fix them.
So go ahead, open WhatsApp Web, and try out the new calling feature today. It’s calling made simple — right on your desktop!
Bonus Info Points
- Desktop App vs Web Version: The desktop app offers more features (like calling) than the browser-based WhatsApp Web. Always prefer the app for full functionality.
- Notification Settings: You can enable or disable call notifications in the WhatsApp Desktop settings to avoid interruptions during work or meetings.
- Data Usage: WhatsApp voice/video calls on desktop use internet data, so make sure you’re on a stable Wi-Fi connection for the best experience.
- Call History: Call logs made via WhatsApp Desktop are synced with your mobile app, so you can always check your call history from your phone.
- Headphone/Mic Combo Works Better: Using headphones with a built-in microphone often improves call quality and reduces echo or feedback.
- Multiple Device Support: WhatsApp is gradually rolling out multi-device support, meaning you can make calls from desktop even if your phone is disconnected (beta feature).
- No Call Recording: WhatsApp does not offer native call recording features for privacy reasons. Avoid third-party apps as they may not be secure.
- End-to-End Encryption: Just like messages, all voice and video calls on WhatsApp Desktop are encrypted, making them safe for personal and professional use.
- Shortcuts for Calling: You can use keyboard shortcuts (like Ctrl + Shift + V) on some systems to quickly start a video call in WhatsApp Desktop.
- Regular Updates Add New Features: WhatsApp is continuously updating its desktop version. Keep your app up to date to enjoy the latest calling features and improvements.

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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks